Child actors inspired by Seldom Scene Players

September 30, 2012|ALYSSA CHOINIERE | Daily American Staff Writer

CONFLUENCE — Children gain valuable life skills acting out with the Make-a-Scene Players, according to volunteer director Jody Best. She was inspired to join the group after seeing her husband’s involvement with the Seldom Scene Players.

“We got started because the adults in the community were all having opportunities and theater seemed like such a great thing,” she said. “The kids wanted to get involved, so we wanted to make a place for them.”

She started the group three years ago so that children would have an opportunity to learn traits that she says are easily learned in theater, like dedication, confidence and cooperation.

“They have to be dedicated to the cast and have a lot of confidence to say their lines on stage in front of an audience,” Best said.

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The children are involved in all areas of the performance, including backstage work, makeup and lighting.

She said she teaches informally with acting exercises that give children the opportunity to learn. She said she tries to pick plays that will enable children with a wide range of skills and abilities to participate.

In past years, they performed Hamlet, an historical drama called “The Orphan Train” and a fairy tale spoof called “The Trial of Goldilocks.” This year they will perform “Alice in Wonderland.”

“We were looking for something that people could recognize but that would incorporate a large cast and be fun for everyone,” she said.

She said that the Seldom Scene Players supports the group in a variety of ways.

“We help them out, try to support them,” said Seldom Scene Players director Sam McClintock.

Best will be conducting informal auditions for the winter performance Dec. 3.

“I love working with the kids,” she said. “They are so creative and fun and energetic. I love every part of it.”